1137. Upper Perry Hill

On an environmental leave day a couple of weeks back I was litter picking down on the New Cut, the diverted course of the tidal River Avon in Bristol. During the litter pick, one of my colleagues asked whether I had looked at a piece of street art she has been telling me about for a little while. During the lunch break, I took a short walk into Bedminster where the mural was, not far from the New Cut.

Anderw Burns Colwill, Upper Perry Hill, Bristol, November 2017
Anderw Burns Colwill, Upper Perry Hill, Bristol, November 2017

I found the piece, and instantly saw that it was by Andrew Burns Colwill, his style is so distinctive. This piece has breathed new life into what was previously a bland wall and brought with it an exotic feel – street art for a local community. It is beautiful.

Anderw Burns Colwill, Upper Perry Hill, Bristol, November 2017
Anderw Burns Colwill, Upper Perry Hill, Bristol, November 2017

This work has a lovely watercolour quality to it. The details of the piece poke through a misty haze, and the derelict archway give it a classical feel, the whole thing being soulful, peaceful and romantic. I’m not sure if the church is based on a real one or whether it is from Burns Colwill’s mind, probably the latter.

Anderw Burns Colwill, Upper Perry Hill, Bristol, November 2017
Anderw Burns Colwill, Upper Perry Hill, Bristol, November 2017

I am a big fan of Andrew Burns Colwill’s work, and have found him great company on the few occasions I have met him. One day I will go for that drink with him and get that interview he agreed to some months ago!